INSTANT GRATIFICATION Meaning and
Definition
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Instant gratification refers to the immediate fulfillment or satisfaction of one's desires, cravings, or impulses, often without considering the potential long-term consequences. It stems from seeking immediate pleasure or rewards, emphasizing the here and now rather than considering future implications. This term can apply to various areas of life, including personal, social, or financial aspects.
In personal terms, instant gratification revolves around seeking immediate pleasure or enjoyment without prioritizing the importance of delayed gratification, which involves working toward long-term goals or enduring temporary discomfort for future benefit. It can manifest in behaviors like impulsive shopping, indulging in unhealthy food, or seeking immediate emotional comfort rather than addressing deeper issues.
Socially, instant gratification can manifest through seeking instant validation or approval on social media platforms, yearning for immediate attention from others, or prioritizing the pursuit of short-term relationships without considering long-term compatibility or emotional connection.
Financially, instant gratification pertains to impulsive spending habits, accumulating debt through credit card usage, or lacking financial discipline by prioritizing short-term desires over long-term financial stability and wealth accumulation.
Instant gratification, while offering immediate pleasure, often fails to fulfill long-term needs or goals. It can hinder personal growth, delay progress, and lead to a cycle of short-lived satisfaction. Conversely, embracing delayed gratification fosters discipline, patience, and the ability to plan for a more rewarding future.
Etymology of INSTANT GRATIFICATION
The word "instant gratification" is a compound formed by combining two words: "instant" and "gratification".
The word "instant" dates back to the late 15th century and comes from the Latin word "instantem", which means "urgent, instant, present, pressing". It later evolved in English to refer to something that happens immediately or without delay.
The word "gratification" comes from the Latin word "gratificare", which means "to do a favor to, oblige, please". In English, it originally referred to pleasing or satisfying someone. The term "instant gratification" specifically denotes the immediate satisfaction or pleasure that one seeks from fulfilling desires or needs without delay or effort.
The phrase "instant gratification" gained popularity in the 1960s, particularly in relation to discussions on human psychology and the concept of seeking immediate pleasure or reward.
